Shedeur Sanders Selected by Cleveland Browns in NFL Draft
In an unexpected turn of events, Shedeur Sanders, the University of Colorado quarterback, was selected 144th overall by the Cleveland Browns during the final day of the NFL Draft. This decision came as a surprise to many, given Sanders’ accolades as the 2024 Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year.
A Testing Journey
Despite entering the draft with high expectations, Sanders waited longer than anticipated to hear his name called. However, he remained optimistic throughout the process. Upon being selected, Sanders expressed gratitude and viewed his delay as “perfect timing,” emphasizing his faith and positive mindset.
“Our belief in God, that’s all we care about. We know these decisions, things happen, sometimes it’s adversity,” Sanders stated. “You just got to remain positive, stay happy at all times and know God got you. … So I wasn’t really panicking because I understood it’s about perfect timing.”
Perspectives from the Browns
Browns general manager Andrew Berry noted that he did not expect Sanders to still be available in the fifth round, describing the team’s commitment to fostering competition across all positions. He reiterated the team’s philosophy that every player, regardless of their draft position, has an opportunity to prove their worth.
“In terms of his reaction, I’d just say it was probably a mixture of like gratitude, relief and determination, that would probably be the best way to characterize it,” Berry added.
Draft Overview
Sanders was the sixth quarterback selected in the draft, following five others who were chosen in earlier rounds. The Tennessee Titans kicked off the quarterback selections by picking Cam Ward from the University of Miami as the number one overall pick, while other teams added notable talents, including Jaxson Dart from Ole Miss and Tyler Shough from Louisville.
Background and Performance
Sanders, a former four-star recruit, has had a unique college career mostly guided by his father, Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders. He began his collegiate journey at Jackson State University, playing under his father’s coaching before transferring to Colorado in preparation for the 2023 season. There, he showcased remarkable skills, leading the Buffaloes to a 9-4 record and throwing for over 4,000 yards in his final collegiate season.
Looking Ahead
Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski emphasized the importance of using draft expectations as motivation, stating, “First round pick, seventh round pick, undrafted, once you’re here and you’re on our football team, you’re a part of this culture.” As Sanders begins this new chapter, both the team and fans have their eyes set on his potential impact on the field.